SOCAN royalty for comedy and magic shows

Summary#

The Copyright Board published SOCAN Tariff 11.B – Comedy Shows and Magic Shows (2018–2022) on August 21, 2021. It sets a flat royalty of $39.27 per show for performances of music in SOCAN’s repertoire when the event’s main focus is comedy or magic, payable within 30 days.

What it does#

• Applies to performances of works in SOCAN’s repertoire at events where the main focus is comedians or magicians and music is incidental, for the years 2018–2022.
• Sets the royalty at $39.27 per event.
• Requires payment no later than 30 days after each event.
• Gives SOCAN the right to audit a user’s books and records on reasonable notice during normal business hours to check payments.
• Says late payments accrue interest calculated daily at a rate of 1% above the Bank Rate published by the Bank of Canada on the last day of the previous month; interest does not compound.
• States that amounts are exclusive of any federal, provincial or other taxes or levies.
• The tariff was published under section 70.1 of the Copyright Act.

Who's affected#

• Venues and promoters that run comedy nights, magic shows, or similar events where music is used only as background or incidental.
• Clubs, theatres, bars, festivals, and event organizers that play recorded music or have in-person performers using works in SOCAN’s repertoire.
• Performers and artists are indirectly affected because the tariff sets the cost structure venues face when music is involved.

If it’s unclear whether a given event counts as “primary focus” comedy or magic with incidental music, the source does not give further guidance.

Why it matters#

• The fee is small per event, but it can add up for venues or promoters that host many shows.
• It clarifies how much must be paid and when, reducing uncertainty about music licensing costs for comedy and magic events in 2018–2022.
• Failure to pay on time can lead to interest charges and possible audits.
• Because the tariff covers specific past years, it may affect settlements for events already held in those years.